In December 2021 the IJF Academy selected Turkey as one of the regional centres. After the Turkish Judo Federation, under the leadership of President Sezer Huysuz, had just opened a state-of-the art headquarters in Ankara, the IJF Academy organised its last practical session for 21 students.

At that time, during discussions held with the President, the Academy proposed two experimental weeks in Istanbul, as the city is very well connected to the rest of the world. Thanks to the Turkish Judo Federation, the Clarion Hotel, which is frequently used by the Turkish team, was identified for the sessions. The least that can be said is that it was a great success as this time 32 students from 18 countries attended. Many of these students commented positively on the decision to stage the Academy course in Istanbul as most of them had direct flights at affordable prices.

As expected, the organisation of the Turkish Judo Federation was perfect with Mr Behic, Head of the international department, being on top of every arrival and departure. Kaya Gezeker, Ambassador of the IJF Academy for Turkish speaking countries, was of great assistance in the local organisation.

Together with Mr Gezeker and Mr Mesut Kapan, IJF Academy expert and Technical Director of the Turkish Judo Federation, the IJF Academy discussed strategies for further development and included talks about how to assist the Turkish-speaking countries, including Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan.

During the first week, the IJF Academy paid a courtesy visit at the HQ of the Turkish Olympic Committee and met Secretary General Mrs Nese Gündogan and the Sports Director, to discuss future Olympic Solidarity support for courses in Istanbul.

© NOC Turkey

The courses in Istanbul were under the direction of Mr Huizinga, assisted by Mr Franck Moussima and Mesut Kapan. Mr Karyia Chikara from the Kodokan offered his knowledge in the katame-no-kata and in nage-no-kata sessions.

During the second week, the IJF Academy welcomed a new expert, Beijing Olympic champion from Italy, Giulia Quintavalle.

Giulia Quintavalle

She said, “I am thrilled to be part of the Academy! It is an honour and a pleasure to be part of this great team full of former champions, who have walked the mats worldwide. During these moments, I recognise how grateful I am to be surrounded by inspiring and warm colleagues such as Mark Huizinga, Frank Moussima, Chikara Karya, Envic Galea and Tibor Kozsla. They have always been there, ready to help me at any time, like a big family.

The Academy provides excellent opportunities. Before I took part as a student, but now as an expert. It has allowed me to grow regarding techniques and values.

Giulia Quintavalle, Olympic Champion

The Academy helps judoka to gain an insight into how judo evolved aswell as offering the possibility to refine technique down to the finest detail and all while working within an impeccable environment of mutual respect.

Instructor – Level 1 and UCJI students

This experience allows participants to become better coaches and pass on what they learned on the course to others at their federations and clubs. As Jigoro Kano said, ‘The purpose of judo training is the completion of oneself and the preservation and growth of the world.’ Here it is happening.”

Thus the IJF Academy continues its development, welcoming more and more students every year to guarantee that the coaching level steadily improves all over the world. 

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